Pick your battle - Senior Designer/Project Leader/Design Manager Studio Munge Employee Review

3.0
4 Apr 2022
Recommend
CEO approval
Business outlook

Pros

-Exciting local and international projects -Opportunities to move up the designer ladder since turn over is high (but not management) -Hands on design experience with CEO

Cons

-No work life balance, no paid overtime, only time in lieu but challenging process of approval -Support system is lacking, lack of team work, everything is on the designer/project lead -Poor people management, no HR, pigeon hole staff instead of embracing talent, annual review is only offer to those who are in favor and requires employees to "proof themselves" with extensive presentation about their own performance, drastic pay disparity -An environment that makes you think you are not enough and condition you to think this is the best and only work place you will thrive -There are some real talented people here that is often unvalued and some underperforming people that are ignored, not given feedback or help to succeed but rather remain in the studio and the slack is to be expected to be picked up by others -Occasion physiological and verbal abuse -Not a "collective" at all as advertised If you are able to pick your battle and focused on the pros and remember the reason and the experience you would like to get out of working at a "renowned" studio like this one, then this is for you. It does open up many doors and opportunities.

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Studio Munge Response
4y
We will always strive to improve our process to become a more robust studio so thank you for sharing this constructive review. Our corporate structure has evolved a lot in the last few years to address some of your “cons” and better support our teams. That said, the mistreatments you mention are of concern to us and should you feel comfortable, we would be keen on discussing the matters offline to ensure everyone feels safe and heard. We hope, as you said, that working with us opened many doors for you and that you still learned a lot about design. We are all grateful for your contribution to the success of our studio and wish you the very best on your journey.

Explore other reviews about Studio Munge

5.0
1 Apr 2025
Anonymous employee
Recommend
CEO approval
Business outlook

Pros

Working at the SM, you have the opportunity to collaborate with a diverse team of talented, supportive, and purpose-driven individuals. Like many design studios, the pace of work is fast, but here, the energy is focused, intentional, and deeply motivating. The environment is designed to encourage growth, sharpen your skills, and elevate not just your own work, but the work of those around you. You’re challenged in meaningful ways, trusted to take initiative, and supported as you push your ideas further. There’s a strong sense of momentum throughout the studio, an energy that encourages you to rise, adapt, and step into your potential. The culture is dynamic, focused, and driven by purpose, with support at every level. Leadership sets the tone of trust in the team’s ability to deliver thoughtful, high-level design. There’s real heart behind the work here, and it shows across every project. If you thrive in a high-energy, design-led environment and are excited by the idea of working on incredible projects globally, this is the kind of place that will bring out your best and help you become even better.

Cons

The location can feel a bit far from the city's happenings, although it is a great spot for the convenience of design-related work! The area is trickier for lunch spots and walking routes near the studio if you usually like to opt for a mid-day outing away from your workspace. It also could be slightly inconvenient if you have to commute by transit from a far distance.

1.0
26 Dec 2025
Recommend
CEO approval
Business outlook

Pros

The office environment is pleasant and well-maintained, making it a comfortable place to work. However, the overall professional experience is fairly basic.

Cons

Leadership can feel unapproachable, with leads often appearing busy rather than engaged. The owner presents himself more as a business man and celebrity than a hands-on designer, which affects the creative direction. Design work is often repetitive, with limited originality or innovation.

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